Item 8.01 Other Events.

On September 15, 2009, Emeritus Corporation (the "Company") announced that it has been selected by Blackstone Real Estate Advisors ("BREA") as manager in conjunction with BREA's preliminary agreement to acquire approximately 148 communities currently operated by Sunwest Management, Inc. ("Sunwest").

BREA has executed a preliminary agreement with Sunwest, an Oregon based operator of senior living communities, to acquire communities emerging from bankruptcy for a cash investment and assumption of secured debt by an entity comprised of affiliates of BREA and Columbia Pacific Management, Inc. ("Columbia Pacific"), an entity controlled by Dan Baty, Chairman and Co-CEO of Emeritus. Under the terms of the proposal, Emeritus would be appointed as manager of the portfolio. Emeritus will also have the option to invest up to 10% of the equity in the joint venture entity along with BREA and Columbia Pacific.

This preliminary agreement is subject to a number of contingencies, including a due diligence process and bankruptcy approvals. The Company will provide additional information when definitive agreements are finalized.

Item 9.01 Financial Statements and Exhibits.

(d) Exhibits

Exhibit No. Description

99.1 Press Release dated September 15, 2009, entitled Emeritus to Participate in Blackstone Offer to Acquire 148 Senior Living Communities..

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